CHARGERS: New running back Brown ready to contribute

New RB adds depth following Tolbert's departure

That's what newly acquired Chargers running back Ronnie Brown told reporters Monday ---- after his first practice with the team ---- about making San Diego his new home.

"It was just a good opportunity here," said Brown, who agreed to terms on a one-year contract with the Chargers on Friday. "There's great leadership, the work ethic is good, and (the Chargers) have high expectations as far as winning.

"And that's where I want to go ---- (a team) that wants to win and has what it takes to win."

The veteran running back spent last season with the Philadelphia Eagles and was stuck in a reduced role behind Eagles starter LeSean McCoy. Despite appearing in all 16 games for Philadelphia, Brown had only 42 carries, no pass receptions, and finished the season with a mere 136 yards and one touchdown.

"You know, obviously, last year wasn't anything I expected in terms of being able to contribute," said Brown. "But now it's great to be here, and it's about coming in and putting in the work and doing my part to help this team every way I can."

Brown arrived to the practice field late because of a physical he took earlier Monday, but still joined in drills with his new team. Donning a No. 30 jersey, Brown saw snaps with the first and second team, and quickly tried to get acclimated to his new environment.

"I got here straight from a physical and just hit the ground running," Brown said. "I thought I could try to meet guys in between drills, and I talked to some guys. But I met a lot of people the last few hours, so I've got a lot of work to do (as far as) names."

Before last season, Brown spent his first six NFL seasons with Miami after the Dolphins made the former Auburn star the second overall pick in the 2005 draft. Brown enjoyed considerable success in Miami, where he ranks third on the Dolphins' all-time list for rushing yards and touchdowns, with 4,815 and 36, respectively.

However, concerns remain about Brown's durability and age. Brown turned 30 in December ---- an age that has generally marked the decline of a running back's career.

Brown, though, still believes he has plenty left in the tank. Last year's reduced workload is one reason, he said.

"I didn't get any wear and tear last year," Brown said with a smile. "So that was a good year for me. I was able to learn football and take care of my body at the same time. And (in Miami) I was able to share time with Ricky (Williams), and that saved a lot of wear and tear."

"I feel as good as I've felt to this point of my life."

Brown joins a Chargers' backfield that needed depth after the departure of Mike Tolbert to Carolina during the offseason. And though it appears he will be locked in a battle for the backup running back role with Curtis Brinkley, Brown still has his sights on taking some snaps away from incumbent starter Ryan Mathews.

"There's always going to be competition," Brown said. "I'm familiar with Ryan and the things he's done and his ability, and I think he's a tremendous running back. But at the same time, you're here to compete and make one another better."